Hidden gems in Setesdal

Hidden Wilderness Gems

Setesdal’s rugged landscape is defined by the Austheiene mountains and the powerful Otra river. This collection features Gloppefossen, one of the region's highest waterfalls with a 280-meter drop, alongside Reiårsfossen’s 200-meter vertical fall. The list highlights the extensive DNT (Norwegian Trekking Association) network of self-service cabins, such as Berdalsbu and Stavskar, which provide essential shelter for hikers crossing the high plateaus between Valle, Sirdal, and Telemark.

Hidden Wilderness Gems — Map

A

Reiårsfossen

A 200-meter vertical waterfall located near the village of Ose along the Otra river.

B

Syrtveitsfossen

Large river rapids on the Otra used for white-water rafting and kayaking.

C

Gloppefossen

One of the highest waterfalls in the region, featuring a 280-meter drop. Accessible via a two-hour round-trip trail from Veum.

D

Neset

Scenic peninsula on the Byglandsfjorden offering views of the surrounding granite peaks.

E

Gloppefossen

Vantage point overlooking the 280-meter Gloppefossen waterfall and the steep canyon walls.

F

Tjønndalen

Self-service DNT mountain cabin located in the western Setesdal highlands.

G

Stavskar

DNT trekking cabin situated on the historic mountain trail between Valle and Sirdal.

H

Bjørnevasshytta

Mountain lodge located along the road between Valle and Tokke, serving as a trailhead for the Austheiene mountains.

I

Berdalsbu

Self-service DNT cabin in the Austheiene range, situated at approximately 1,000 meters above sea level.

J

Nystøyl

Traditional mountain cabin in the Austheiene network, connecting trails between Setesdal and Telemark.

K

Torsdalsbu

Remote self-service cabin located in the highland plateau of the Setesdal East Moors.

L

Nutevasshytta

Wilderness cabin located by Lake Nutevatn in the high mountain terrain.

M

Hovstøyl

Self-service DNT cabin in the Austheiene mountains near the Agder and Telemark border.

Other Lists

Setesdal Essentials Setesdal Heritage Highlights Historic Churches & Chapels Outdoor Adventures in Setesdal